Why Kevin Strootman Must Be the First Signing for Moyes at Manchester United

Kevin Strootman looks certain to move on from PSVEindhoven this summer, and plenty of clubs in Europe are willing to fight it out for his signature.

The Metro reported in May that the Dutchman had been advised to leave his current club by manager Dick Advocaat, with the boss claiming Strootman is just as good as Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry:

This guy fits everywhere. He's a fantastic player because he knows exactly what his qualities are.

Strootman is nothing less than Barry. He's a very useful player for every team. Especially when he's surrounded by better players.

The Express believe both Everton and AC Milan have shown significant interest, with the midfielder acting as Marouane Fellaini's replacement or potentially becoming a key figure at the San Siro.

With his manager's blessing, Strootman could find himself leaving the Philips-Stadion for approximately £17 million—a steal in the current climate.

And that's why David Moyes need to move fast and secure him as his first Manchester United signing.

Managers are so often judged on their first piece of business, and the success or failure of the player appears to leave a permanent mark on their record.

Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

Brendan Rodgers hardly enthralled the neutrals by spending £11 million on Fabio Borini (via BBC), and a bad start only enhanced the groans of those who weren't convinced with the appointment itself.

Moyes has the hardest job in football next season: Follow Sir Alex Ferguson.

A great first signing will instill faith from the fans, and it's glaringly obvious that United need a complete midfielder that can solidify the middle of the park. The board know it, Ferguson knew it and the fans know it.

Strootmanis a perfect tactical fit at United, combining good defensive instincts with an attacking prowess you'd expect from a No. 10.

He represents the best value on the market in this position, as Victor Wanyama will be significantly harder to attain and ThiagoAlcantara—while representing a can't-miss opportunity to buy a prodigious talent—is not a burning need position-wise.

Moyes will have the benefit of patience in the stands, but he knows he needs to get the first few steps spot on.

If the first signing isn't the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, it needs to be fan favourite and perfect fit Strootman.